Four Days in the North Cascades

BY MELISSA MEILLER

With Summer disappearing, I’d been scolding myself for the lack of backpacking I’d done. So when Trails reached out to tell me I’d scored a 4-day excursion for a friend and I, I was ecstatic. 

We met our guide from Cascade Mountain Assents in Bellingham, Washington on a perfect August morning. We had no idea what to expect. but Alyssa instantly gave me confidence that we were in good hands. After warm welcomes and reassurances that we would not leave unprepared, she reviewed our gear, filling in gaps and abandoning unnecessary weight. Finally, she revealed our 30-mile route near the base of Glacier Peak in the North Cascades. 

Looking at the map, I was impressed with the amount of variety she described, but not nearly as impressed as I was when I experienced it. 

The first day immersed us in giant conifers and peaceful sounds of the Sauk river. Day two presented a rewarding challenge, climbing steeply in just 3 miles but wowing us with views of lush hills and snowy mountaintops. Still a workout, the short distance got us to camp with enough daylight left for a recharge before venturing north 2.5 miles for a view of Glacier Peak, and marmots galore!

The next day was spent in the high alpine with sprawling views of the glacier-clad peaks. Endless patches of wild blueberries and huckleberries filled our bellies. After another steep climb up exposed rock, we ended at Blue Lake. This lake is perhaps one of the most pristine bodies of water I’d ever seen and a camping paradise.

Our final day was the longest, but although our bodies were taxed, our spirits were energized. As we reached the forest floor and laughed our way back to the car, I knew that trail had been imprinted on my heart. 

Photo: Jillian Talbot